Our Seattle 3D printing company has previously discussed the application of 3D printing in space exploration. 3D printers are making it possible for astronauts to make more efficient use of their resources, printing out parts and equipment as needed instead of packing everything they may need. As the world begins to take a more serious look at manned missions to Mars, it is this technology that may serve to finally make such a mission feasible.
One group, Mars Without Borders, recently conducted a simulation to explore the application of 3D printing in a real Mars exploration mission. This simulation, conducted in the deserts of Utah, had the faux-astronauts print out instruments, parts, and surgical tools with a printer designed to run on solar power. The team then had to attempt to perform repairs on model life support systems. Through this simulation, Mars Without Borders was able to demonstrate the potential of 3D printing to facilitate a real Martian colony, potentially allowing for non-medical teams to conduct surgical techniques in emergency situations.
